How do the conditions differ?
(a condition where fatty tissue increases, usually symmetrically in the legs, with pain and tenderness) is not the same as (swelling that develops when the body’s lymphatic system cannot carry fluid away). The table shows typical patterns, but it cannot be used to diagnose yourself.37383941
| Lipoedema | Lymphoedema | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is affected? | Almost only women. Often several family members.37 | Women and men. Often after cancer or present from birth.2 |
| When does it start? | Often at puberty or during hormonal changes.38 | After damage to the (the body’s drainage system of fine vessels and lymph nodes that carries fluid away from tissue) or as a condition present from birth.2 |
| Where does it occur? | Usually symmetrical, from hips to ankles. The feet are usually unaffected.39 | Often one arm or leg, but both sides can be affected.2 |
| Common symptoms | Pain, tenderness and bruising.41 | Heaviness, swelling and (a bacterial skin infection that causes redness, fever and swelling).2 |
| Weight loss | The pattern of fat and symptoms may remain despite weight loss.39 | Does not cure the condition, but excess weight increases the risk.35 |
| Skin ultrasound | Normal skin thickness in the comparative study.40 | Thicker skin containing fluid in everyone in the same study.40 |
When severe obesity affects the
Severe obesity can itself cause in the legs. Published investigations have shown a clear risk at a (body mass index, weight in relation to height) above about 50. This is not an exact threshold that applies to everyone.35
In a case report, lymphatic function did not improve despite a fall in from 80 to 36. This was a single patient, so the result cannot be generalised.36
Seek help with your weight early. (an operation that removes fat through small cuts using thin tubes) for is not a weight-loss treatment.
Help for different needs
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Do you need help with your weight?
The information describes results in studies. Results vary between individuals. A doctor needs to assess your situation.
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